MIDWIVES at Redditch and Bromsgrove's hospitals trust are appealing for volunteers to support women to breastfeed.

Potential volunteers are invited to a meet and greet session at 10am on Thursday, January 31 in the Charles Hastings Education Centre at Worcestershire Royal Hospital to get more information on a training programme to learn how to support pregnant women and new mothers.

Becky Davenport, infant feeding lead at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, which runs the Alexandra Hospital in Redditch, said: "Getting breastfeeding off to a good start can be difficult. By starting this network of trained volunteers, we will be able to offer new mums the help they need, when they need it.

“The volunteer programme is a great opportunity to work with NHS professionals, expand your knowledge and learn a lifelong skill – at the same time as contributing to your local community.

"There’s no experience necessary, but an interest in breastfeeding is essential.

"This will be the 4th year we have run this opportunity and many of our previous volunteers have gone on to do midwifery training.”

The volunteer roles will involve 15 to 20 hours of free training with specialist midwives upon clearance of the standard Disclosure and Barring Service checks.

Mum Verity Worthington, who was supported by a volunteer, said: “I was so grateful for the support I received when breastfeeding.

"In the first weeks I was so glad that I had a number to call and lovely support on hand. The volunteers and midwives all do brilliant work.”

Contact specialist infant feeding midwife Caroline Payne on 07879440264 or carolinepayne@nhs.net for more information or to book.

Becky and Caroline will be on hand at the meet and greet event from 10am to 11am to answer any questions.